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Dear ACAC Families,

            As a new season approaches the coaching staff and board of directors would like to take this opportunity to address the issue of placement of swimmers in appropriate practice groups.  Several parents have called and emailed coaches requesting special consideration for their swimmers for a variety of reasons. 

While an occasional and temporary move due to work schedules, car pools, or various appointments is understandable and acceptable, keeping a swimmer in a group they are either not prepared for or too advanced for is not a practice the coaches and board want to be abused. 

Coaches take into account many factors when considering moving a swimmer to a more advanced level.  It is not necessarily a swimmer’s age or parental input that determines if he/she is ready to move. Nor should it be for any other reason than the coach’s determination that the swimmer is ready for the challenge of a more advanced group.

The coaches have established definitive performance based criteria that must be met in order for a swimmer to join a new group. These standards must be met consistently to maintain the integrity of the practice for the other swimmers.  These levels vary of course and will be explained to the swimmers in the group and/or individual meetings the coaches will have with the swimmers during the season.  The swimmers should be aware of these standards so they know what they can develop their individual goals.

In addition there are other factors coaches take into account. For example, a swimmer’s consistency is considered.  Consistent attendance at practices and a consistent level of swim performance both in practice and in competition are evaluated.  A swimmer may perform very well at meets and yet not show the maturity needed for a more advanced group.  Dedication and attitude to and about the sport and the team are also looked at. 

While the coaching staff and board would like to create a schedule that accommodates every family perfectly, we know this is impossible.  The board has worked very hard over the years to acquire coaches who are knowledgeable and dedicated to the success of ALL our swimmers.  We have NO doubt that our coaches make decisions based on what is best for the swimmer and the team.  It is a delicate balance, and they do a remarkable job as evidenced by our swimmers’ performances and successes in and out of the pool. We ask that the judgment of the coaching staff be respected and supported by all.

With sincere appreciation for your continued support and loyalty,

ACAC Board of Directors

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